A society without any rules is an anarchyand can�t be called a society. Even when you have set up a clan, or you want to set up a clan with friends, you need some rules. Rules on what is allowed and not allowed within the clan, and even outside it. All armed forces in the world have a booklet like this with Rules & Regulations. If they didn�t, believe me: you wouldn�t want to join them!

The question now becomes: Do I really need these rules? (yes, you do!) What do I write into them? (we�ll come to that) How do I make my clan members abide by them, and what if they don�t?

1. A code is needed to make sure that new clan members, who are not bound to you by reason of school/work/friendship, do not behave in a way which is unethical or not in the spirit of your clan. A rulebook also makes clear what your ethics and what your spirit is. A rulebook can also fix the line of command (you don�t want new recruits insulting and challenging other clans without knowing about it). Its a sort of law which you and your clan members accept as binding: it forms partly the glue which binds you together in this specific clan.

2. A code should be enforced by sanctions. If you have a rule but you can�t enforce it, or you do not enforce it, you basically have an obsolete rule. There will be no recourse once a rule is broken, and it could happen that people will feel insulted if you then do try to enforce it. However, make sure everybody knows that these rules are seriously meant and that you are serious when it comes to rules.

3. A code should be applied with equal force to all of the clan members. If friends break the rules, they should face the consequences. Otherwise recruits will turn away, mad at the �inner-crowd versus the rest� atmosphere. However, remember to be just in your dealings with violations. Sometimes people actually didn�t intend to break rules. When dealing with code violations a decision should be required from the leadership of the clan (minimum three people) with equal votes. This to evades ties, forces a decision and prevents �mobbing�.

4. A code should contain the following:

- Opening clause on who who you are and what you stand for

- Membership

Who can become a member
Use of clantag
Hierarchy
Duties towards the clan

- Ethics

Stance on cheating
Definition of other unethical behaviour
Behaviour towards other players/clans (pub and match)

- Match Rules

Use of Tag
Behaviour in match
Absent from match

- Rule Violations

Who sets up rules
Who decides on violations
What are the sanctions

5. The code should be placed on the website under a name that makes clear what you mean by it. Furthermore, new recruits should be asked whether they agree to it (you don�t have to get it in writing, again: you are not a police state).

6. Regularly check the rules, whether they are still relevant and applicable. Have team members think actively on things that irritate them, and how they would solve it. Remember its easier to bind people to things they themselves helped set up.